Personal Retreat for Body, Mind, and Spirit
Personal retreat is a much-needed spiritual practice in light of the fast paced, over-informed, sometimes divisive world we live in. And thankfully Jesus modeled time away from the crowds and the demands in order to be alone to pray and reconnect with the Father. And he then invited others to do the same. "Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while." (Mark 6:31)
I have found the best personal retreats are those that aren't over-scheduled with precise formats, but rather are flexible, open-ended, and allow room for the Spirit to lead or change the plan as needed. I like to make it a truly holistic experience that ministers to body, mind, and spirit, focusing on how the Divine integrates all three as one. It encourages physical rest as well as movement, various forms of faith expressions (reading, prayer, journaling, art), as well as times of stillness and silence listening for the Divine within.
To make the most of my time alone with God, whether it's just for a few hours, a full day or several days, I use these five practices:
Let a "soul friend" or spiritual director know about your retreat and commit to supporting you through prayer and in conversation both before and after your retreat.
Pack light, especially with regard to books, and other resources you may be tempted to bring along. Besides a journal, and my Bible, I usually choose only one or two other books that encourage reflection or an openness of heart which may be devotional writings or poetry, and perhaps something to relax the mind like a much-loved novel that feels like play and leisure.
Use the first few minutes or hours to simply unwind, to become comfortable in the environment, to acknowledge the reality of switching from chronos time that obsesses over "What time is it?" and enters into the kairos time that gently asks, "What is this time for?"
Eat simply and slowly.
End your retreat with reflection on what you received during this time, what you take away with you into the days ahead, how you feel physically, mentally, spiritually.
If you’re new to taking a personal retreat, you might consider using one of the Personal Retreat Guides to help you develop a focus and a rhythm to your time away.
